Miklós Csemiczky: Madrigal (SATB)

Miklós Csemiczky’s Madrigal is a setting of Sándor Weöres’s poem “Orbán”, dedicated to György Orbán. The work is written for four-part mixed choir.

The piece creates a light, playful and distinctive musical atmosphere that reflects the unusual character of Weöres’s text. The vocal parts often move together before separating into answering or overlapping lines. Short, rhythmically lively motifs and the recurring “Tra-ta-ta” syllables give the music a particularly energetic and almost humorous character.

The musical flow develops through several changes of tempo and character. The light Allegretto, grazioso opening is followed by more animated and agitated passages before the music returns to its initial character. Dynamic builds, sudden contrasts and rhythmic interplay between the voices keep the piece fresh and engaging throughout.

Madrigal is an excellent choice for choirs looking for a short, witty and distinctive work of contemporary Hungarian choral music. Its combination of musical sophistication and playful character makes it particularly effective in concert programmes.